20 Recommended Destinations to Enjoy the Charms of Western Tokyo!
Western Tokyo is not as famous as the 23 wards of central Tokyo, but there are many sightseeing spots that are popular with foreign tourists. Western Tokyo is richer in nature than central Tokyo and has many peaceful spots such as Shinto shrines and parks. There are also many places to enjoy local food at reasonable prices, so everyone should check it out when they get the chance.
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10 Recommended Destinations in Western Tokyo
1. Tamarokuto Science Center
Tamarokuto Science Center has exhibitions and laboratories where visitors can enjoy hands-on learning about science through sight and touch. It has a planetarium that was renovated in 2012, which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for its number of stars. There is also a museum shop and cafe on site, so you can visit for both an educational and relaxing time.
2. Tanashi Shrine
Tanashi Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine, regarded as a spiritually powerful spot. It is not large, but the shrine has sacred trees and a sumo wrestling ring. The station is also nearby so it is easily accessible and there is a parking lot if you plan to arrive by car.
3. DyDo Drinco Ice Arena
4. Higashi Fushimi Inari Shrine
Higashi Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine that was built in cooperation with the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. Like Fushimi Inari Shrine, it has 1000 torii gates so if you don't have the opportunity to visit Kyoto, you can see just as many gates here. The goshuin (temple seal) are written in advance, but they are beautifully handwritten.
What a delight to be able to see 1000 torii gates in western Tokyo! It is such a treat to be able to experience them without going all the way to Kyoto. This shrine is especially recommended for people who wish to experience them in a different atmosphere.
5. Koganei Park
Koganei Park is a spacious park located on the banks of Tama River. It has a variety of areas that are enjoyed by people of all ages, including a cherry blossom tree area, plaza, archery range, and steam locomotive exhibit. 40% of the park was lost after a war, but it was reopened as a municipal park in 1954.
There are various areas in the park to enjoy activities such as tennis, archery, and soccer. There are many cherry blossoms to see in the spring, so it is a perfect place for picnics.
6. Koganei Cheesecake
7. Tama Lake Cycling Road
This road is highly recommended for people who like to cycle and enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the scenery. There are no sharp hills, so beginners can enjoy it as well. It is also a wonderful idea for a date, to enjoy the beautiful nature with a special someone.
8. Giant Mailbox of Kodaira
9. Akabane Hachiman Shrine
Akabane Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine where the Tohoku Joetsu bullet train runs just below. It was called Akabanezan Hachimangu until the beginning of the Showa Era (1926 - 1989). It was unheard of for a bullet train to run under a sacred spot, but that is how it was ultimately constructed. This incident was widely reported in the media, making the shrine a popular tourist destination.
5 Recommended Spots Near Stations in Western Tokyo
1. PARCO Hibarigaoka Branch
2. DAILIES CAFE Higako
3. Soji Temple
4. Inokashira Park Zoo
5. Musashino Place
This is a little-known gem recommended for those who want to relax and read a book or study. The lighting is indirect, so you can comfortably sit down and spend some quiet time. This stylish library is unlike most libraries, so be sure to check it out.
5 Hidden Gems of Western Tokyo
1. Hibari Terrace 118
At Hibari Terrace 118, you can interact with other visitors and get to know the local residents. You can also enjoy a meal, plant things, and even share cars together. This place is highly recommended for its welcoming and homey atmosphere.
2. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum
Old buildings are retained as they originally were, lending the museum a nostalgic feel. You may feel as if you have traveled back in time as you catch a glimpse of how people lived in the past. This place is highly recommended for people who like history, so be sure to visit.
3. Nishi Tokyo City Local History Museum
There is a homey feel to the museum, so you can relax as you enjoy walking through it. It is filled with the history of Nishi Tokyo City, so if you are a history buff, this is a recommended place to visit.
4. Shitanoya Iseki Park
The park has been designated as a historic site by the Japanese government, but you can walk around freely. There are signboards with information about the Jomon Period and the park located in various places, so history lovers are recommended to take a stroll through it. This is a little-known spot, so you can relax, take your time, and enjoy interacting with history.
5. The University of Tokyo Tanashi Forest
The sunflower maze is especially famous and is free to enter. It is not very large, but you can enjoy a relaxing walk with a view of tall sunflowers. It is a great place to visit, even with small children, to enjoy nature.
Rediscover the Charm of Western Tokyo and Revel in Its Nature and History!
This article introduced some recommended tourist destinations in western Tokyo. Were there any that piqued your interest? From the latest favorites to little-known gems, these spots all are highly recommended. In western Tokyo, you can spend a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy its many charming historical and nature spots. If you want to take a relaxing walk or are interested in learning more about the history of Japan, why not give western Tokyo a visit?
Header Image: PIXTA
Translated and republished with permission from: SPIRA (formerly known as Relux Magazine)
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The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.